Winter Tips For Keeping Your Dog Fit

Posted on: 7 April 2016

Humans are not the only ones who have a difficult time staying in shape during the winter months, dog do as well! Here are a few tips to help you keep your dog fit and in good shape this winter.

Take Your Dog On A Field Trip

Even though it may be too cold to take your dog to the dog park right now, it doesn't mean they have to stay cooped up inside of your house. Take your dog on your field trip to your local pet-supply store. Many pet supply stories welcome animals, and are more than okay with you bringing your furry friend on a visit with you. 

See if there are any other pet-friendly businesses in your area, and make a little outing of it. 

Sign Your Dog Up For A Class

Yes, there are exercise classes for dogs. See if a local animal shelter, pet store or boarding facility like Club K9 offers any dog exercise classes. A great class to get your dog active is an agility based class. This will get your dog working out and will improve their skills as well.

Go For A Short Daily Walk

Even if it is freezing outside, bundle up and take your dog out for a short walk. A short walk will allow your dog to get out some of its energy, and it will give you an opportunity to breathe some fresh air and enjoy the beauty of wintertime. Just because it is cold outside doesn't mean it is not also beautiful! 

As you walk, you and your dog will both warm up. Try to go for at least a fifteen minute walk so that your dog really has a chance to stretch its legs. 

If you feel up for it, take your dog somewhere where you can play a few games. A couple of rounds of fetch can be especially fun for your dog in the winter snow. 

Play Games Indoors

It can be easy to see your home as just a place to relax. However, during the winter months when you don't go outside as often, it can also be a great place for your dog to get a little exercise in. All you need to do is initiate some playful games with your dog to get them going.

You can always play a classic game of fetch. However, instead of throwing the ball and risking it hitting something valuable, roll it across the floor for your dog to get instead. Your dog will still get to chase the ball and you reduce the risk of damaging something in your home in the process.

You can also play hide and seek with your dog. This works well if you play with another person as well. You and your partner should hide in different parts of the house, and call your dog to you. When your dog finds you, reward them with a treat. Then, have the other person call the dog. Ideally, you should be hiding on different sides of your house so your dog has to run to find you when you call their name.

Another great indoor game you can play with your dog is bubbles. Purchase some pet-friendly bubbles when you go on a field trip to your local pet store. Blow some bubbles and have some fun watching your dog chase them around and try to bite them out of the sky. For some extra fun, turn on a fan so the bubbles really fly around for your dog.

Just because it is a little cold, dark and gloomy outside does not mean that your dog doesn't need exercise. Use the tips above to keep your dog active and moving this winter.

Share